Two Cardinals pass up MLB for first ACC season

The MLB deadline to sign 2014 draft picks has come and gone. While UofL lost many great players to the pros, two decided to stay for Louisville’s inaugural season in the ACC.

Veteran infielder Zach Lucas was selected in the 29th round by the Pittsburgh Pirates, and incoming freshman pitcher/infielder Brendan McKay was picked in the 34th round bythe San Diego Padres. Both will be on the Louisville Cardinals roster in 2015.

While UofL loses plenty of talent including Nick Burdi, Jeff Gardner and Cole Sturgeon, Louisville returns nine positions players with starting experience from last year’s team. The Cards return 10 pitchers who accounted for 74 percent of the team’s starts on the mound.